1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 19 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
