1974 Renault 12 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 465 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1880 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 12 | SL |
Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |