1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 815 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 450 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 450. 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 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 450 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2450 mm |
