2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 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 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
