2005 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 34 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 402 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.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | B | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 138 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 | 1302 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 56 L |
