2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 413 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 19 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 19 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 19 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
