1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 30 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 976 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | ML |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2920 mm |
