2003 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 550 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1255 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 906 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1975 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1975 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CL | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 603 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 77 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 143 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 | 2155 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 56 L |
