2000 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,293 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 600 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2293 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 56 L |
