2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 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 439 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (79 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 300 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. 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, 1988 Renault 19, 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 523 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (107 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 19 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 19 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 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 19 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 75.8 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 | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
