1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1996 Renault Safrane is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Renault Safrane. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 290 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane, 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, 1996 Renault Safrane (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 230 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
