1974 Renault 12 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 605 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
