1985 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1129 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121, 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 121 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1138 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3090 mm |
