1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 514 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 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2431 mm |
