1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1102 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | 12 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
