1987 Renault 5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 5 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1987 Renault 5. (118 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 752 kg more than 1987 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 Renault 5, 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 (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 5. (165 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 5. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1987 Renault 5 has manual transmission. 1987 Renault 5 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:
| 1987 Renault 5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 5 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 858 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
