2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 790 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 613 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SL |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |