1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 5 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 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 730 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 300 | 12 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 77 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 56 L |