2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 455 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
