2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 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 429 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 590 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. 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, 1988 Renault 21, 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 682 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 21 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 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2820 mm |
