2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 550 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | MX-5 Miata | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2961 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 272 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |