2007 Mazda 5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mazda 5 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 5. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 575 kg more than 2007 Mazda 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 5. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 5. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
