1989 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 15 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 930 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz G | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | G | 12 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
