1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 2 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 610 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
