2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 665 kg more than 1980 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 CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 CLK (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CLK | 18 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
