1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 388 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 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220. 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, 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 220 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
