1986 Renault 21 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 26 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 725 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 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 458 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 21 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2875 mm |
