1973 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 590 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | C |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 66 L |
