1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1992 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1992 Renault Safrane. (107 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1992 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 680 kg more than 1992 Renault Safrane. 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, 1992 Renault Safrane, 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Renault Safrane. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Renault Safrane. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1992 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1992 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1992 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| 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 | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
