1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Renault Clio is newer by 30 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 20 more horse power than 2008 Renault Clio. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 360 kg more than 2008 Renault Clio. 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, 2008 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Renault Clio. (195 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | Clio |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
