2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1997 Renault Spider
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Spider would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1997 Renault Spider. (140 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Renault Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | R | Spider |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2350 mm |
