2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 905 kg more than 1969 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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 E (571 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 571 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 89 L |
