1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 890 kg more than 1978 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, 1978 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 (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1978 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 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 12 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
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 | 471 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 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 |