2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 569 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 190 HP |
Torque | 146 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |