2006 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 28 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 695 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18, 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CL | 18 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
