2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
