1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 420 kg more than 1992 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 SLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
