1954 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Mercedes-Benz S (83 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 S (157 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 12 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
