2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 650 kg more than 1978 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 SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 38 L |
