1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 10 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 538 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 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | 300 | 12 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 231 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 273 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |