1980 Renault 14 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 14 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 448 more horse power than 1980 Renault 14. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1980 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 14, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 591 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 14. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 14. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 14 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 14 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 14 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 14 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1407 mm |
