1981 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 870 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 121 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3090 mm |
