2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 800 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18, 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 SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 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 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 18 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1647 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 269 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |