2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 880 kg more than 1989 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 562 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2820 mm |
