1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
