2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
