1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 568 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1330 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (999 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 903 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 12 | CL |
Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 621 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 999 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5105 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1427 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2954 mm |