2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is newer by 31 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 1019 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will offer significantly more control. 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 E500 (460 Nm) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E500 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1919 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
