2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 470 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 1989 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (169 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2820 mm |
