2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 335 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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 (311 Nm) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
