1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 376 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | ML |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
