1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1991 Renault Clio
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault Clio would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1991 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1195 kg more than 1991 Renault Clio. 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, 1991 Renault Clio, 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 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Clio. (88 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Clio. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1991 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1991 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1991 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
