2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 364 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 56 L |
