1991 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 90 L |
