1998 Renault Clio vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Clio would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 780 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Renault Clio, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 489 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (131 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Clio | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clio | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 66 L |
