1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 591 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 12 | SLK |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 5 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2431 mm |