2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 4, 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 S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
