2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1972 Renault 8
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 8 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1972 Renault 8. (49 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1265 kg more than 1972 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1972 Renault 8 has manual transmission. 1972 Renault 8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1972 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 38 L |
