1978 Renault 4 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 389 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1405 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Renault 4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 628 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 4 | CL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 2120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1419 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2955 mm |
