2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 573 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Renault 18. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 18 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 53 L |
