1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 25 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 246 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 1979 Mazda 121 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2910 mm |
