2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 745 kg more than 1970 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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 E (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 413 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1970 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1970 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
