2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 710 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 806 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
Model | SL | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 1001 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |