1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1839 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
