1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Renault Clio
To start off, 1997 Renault Clio is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 555 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 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 (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Clio. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 75.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 64.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 38 L |
