1986 Renault 21 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 586 kg more than 1986 Renault 21.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 21 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 5 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
