1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1988 Renault 21 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 383 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 230 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2820 mm |
