2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Renault Twingo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Twingo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Twingo would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1996 Renault Twingo. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Twingo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1064 kg more than 1996 Renault Twingo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Twingo, 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Twingo. (93 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Twingo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Renault Twingo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Twingo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1149 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 816 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 66 L |
