1975 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 660 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (227 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 12 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 227 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2450 mm |
