2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 900 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 4, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
