2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Safrane (141 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Safrane. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Safrane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 38 L |
