1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 819 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 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | 12 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |