1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Renault 5
To start off, 1988 Renault 5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1988 Renault 5. (45 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 kg more than 1988 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 5, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 5. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 43 L |
