1996 Renault Clio vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Clio would be higher. Both 1996 Renault Clio and 2012 Mercedes-Benz C are equipped with a 3,000 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Clio (250 HP) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 Renault Clio.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Renault Clio. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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 Renault Clio (407 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (299 Nm). This means 1996 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Clio | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clio | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
