1979 Renault 12 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 552 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1924 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 906 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 | SL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
