1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 598 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 350 | 12 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 286 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2450 mm |