1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (251 HP @ 7150 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 280 kg more than 2003 Renault Clio.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Clio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7150 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
