2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 228 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 625 kg more than 2005 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1690 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
