2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1109 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Renault 21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | ML | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2214 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2820 mm |
