2006 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 32 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), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 740 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CL | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
