1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (403 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C 112 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
