2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 30 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 440 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
