1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,404 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 442 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 240 | 12 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2404 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |