2003 Mazda MPV vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mazda MPV is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MPV. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 470 kg more than 2003 Mazda MPV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MPV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MPV. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MPV. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MPV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MPV | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MPV | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
