1974 Renault 12 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 39 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), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (237 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1505 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (617 Nm) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | GL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3075 mm |
