2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is newer by 28 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 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 weights approximately 610 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | C30 | 12 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2950 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |