1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 379 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
