1977 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1930 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Viano (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1977 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1977 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 79 L |
