2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SLK | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
