2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3498 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
