2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 640 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
