1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 890 kg more than 1969 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 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1969 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1969 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
