1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 would be higher. At 1,767 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (45 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. 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, 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 180 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
