1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2005 Renault Clio

To start off, 2005 Renault Clio is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP) has 141 more horse power than 2005 Renault Clio. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 506 kg more than 2005 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Clio. (105 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Clio.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 2005 Renault Clio
Make Mercedes-Benz Renault
Model 380 Clio
Year Released 1979 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3818 cc 1149 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 74 HP
Torque 305 Nm 105 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.6:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1596 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 55 L