2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |