1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 vs. 1980 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1980 Mazda Cosmo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 370 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
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. 1980 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 has manual transmission. 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | 1980 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | W 196 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1090 kg |
