2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,606 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1205 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | ML | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
