1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 (180 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1456 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 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 (440 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 500 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1944 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5401 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2406 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2450 mm |
