1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 is newer by 6 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 400 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 200 | 12 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |