1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1971 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 56 L |
