1998 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 314 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 121 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
