1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. (47 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. 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, 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | Ponton | 12 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
