1949 Mercury Roadster vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 600 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 1949 Mercury Roadster 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 1949 Mercury Roadster. 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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Mercury Roadster | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercury | Renault |
Model | Roadster | 12 |
Year Released | 1949 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2450 mm |