1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 11 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (296 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18.
Because 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 420 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
