1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 38 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (240 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 616 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2916 mm |
