2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 1997 Renault Safrane. (142 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 520 kg more than 1997 Renault Safrane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault Safrane, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 630 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Safrane. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Safrane. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 38 L |
