2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 496 more horse power than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (165 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 183 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 810 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 661 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 48 L |
