2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 625 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 56 L |
