1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 21 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
