2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 kg more than 1975 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, 1975 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1289 cc |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 56 L |
