2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 235 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 497 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 4600 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2585 mm |
