1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Renault Clio
To start off, 1991 Renault Clio is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1991 Renault Clio. (107 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 335 kg more than 1991 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Renault Clio, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Clio. (155 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1991 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Clio |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
