1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (402 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C 112 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 307 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 56 L |
