1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 515 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1696 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.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (1,000 Nm) has 840 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL
Make Mazda Mercedes-Benz
Model 121 SL
Year Released 1979 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 5980 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 90 HP 605 HP
Torque 160 Nm 1000 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 98 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2570 mm


 

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