1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 821 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
