2009 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 11 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Mazda CX-9. (268 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda CX-9.
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, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda CX-9. (269 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda CX-9.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-9 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX-9 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3727 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 269 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 18.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
