1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1982 Renault 18
To start off, 1982 Renault 18 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1982 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1982 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Renault 18, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1982 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
