2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Safrane 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 328 more horse power than 1996 Renault Safrane. (141 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 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 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, 1996 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 500 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Safrane. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Safrane. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Safrane 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 | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 38 L |
