1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 16 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3216 mm |
