2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 570 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1255 kg more than 1981 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 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 938 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Renault 4 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 4 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 956 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 1001 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 695 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |