2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 30 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1160 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 Viano (305 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | Viano | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 56 L |
