2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 934 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
