2001 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Renault Safrane. (141 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Renault Safrane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Renault Safrane (200 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (186 Nm). This means 1998 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 38 L |
