1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1300 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | GL |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
