1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 121 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1242 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |