1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1173 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Renault 18 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | S | 18 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 389 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 570 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 82 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |