2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 995 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. 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, 1981 Renault 4, 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 (351 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
