2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
