1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 529 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | SE |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2760 mm |
