1986 Renault 21 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 382 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 630 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 458 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1986 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 21 | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2760 mm |
