2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
