1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | S | 12 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3839 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2450 mm |