1974 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 32 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 700 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | E |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
