1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 920 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 4, 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 380 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
