1993 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 810 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 12 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
