2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 610 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 56 L |
