2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1359 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Renault 21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | GL | 21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2550 mm |
