2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Renault 14
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 14 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 453 more horse power than 1983 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 360 kg more than 1983 Renault 14. 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, 1983 Renault 14, 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 737 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Renault 14. (93 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Renault 14. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1983 Renault 14 has manual transmission. 1983 Renault 14 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 | 1983 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 14 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 48 L |
