1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1149 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | ML |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2920 mm |
