1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Renault Clio
To start off, 2012 Renault Clio is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Renault Clio. (81 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 95 kg more than 2012 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Renault Clio (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | Clio |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 17.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
