2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1985 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 255 kg more than 1985 Renault 18. 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, 1985 Renault 18, 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 (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 527 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault 18. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1985 Renault 18 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 | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 18 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 77 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 | 1240 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
