1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
