2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 713 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 4.7 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 | 1242 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
