2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 457 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. 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, 1988 Renault 19, 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 (720 Nm) has 538 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (182 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 19 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 19 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 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 19 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1236 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
