2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 824 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CLK | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 56 L |
