1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 279 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
