1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 3,208 cc (6 cylinders), 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 weights approximately 904 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 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 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 (222 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1941 Mercedes-Benz 320 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 320 | 12 |
Year Released | 1941 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3208 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 78 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2450 mm |