2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-8 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |