1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 21 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 655 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | CLK | 12 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 56 L |