1971 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (90 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 565 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (185 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 54 L |
