1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 26 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 178 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1071 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | R |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3220 mm |
