1988 Renault 21 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 371 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 21 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 21 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
