2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-8 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |