2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 295 kg more than 2012 Mazda 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SLK | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
