2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1974 Renault 17
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 17 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 730 kg more than 1974 Renault 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 17. (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1974 Renault 17 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 17 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
