1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 940 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
