2004 Mazda MX vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
