2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Renault Safrane. (114 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 410 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 1996 Renault Safrane, 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 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Safrane. (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Safrane. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
