2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 670 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 664 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Renault 18 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 18 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1645 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |