1988 Renault 19 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (91 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19, 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 C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 19 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 19 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 19 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 19 | C |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 66 L |
