1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz E (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 341 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2760 mm |
