1974 Renault 12 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 525 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 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
