1971 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 41 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 401 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 755 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 506 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Renault 12 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 12 | C |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 6200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 454 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4724 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2766 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 66 L |