1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 21 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2798 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |