2010 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | 3 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1298 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
