2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 564 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 818 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 SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 684 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SLR McLaren | 12 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 617 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 780 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |