1995 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 670 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz E | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 12 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1977 |
| 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 | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| 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 | 1570 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
