1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2440 mm |
