1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1054 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2450 mm |
