2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 552 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1880 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (1,000 Nm) has 904 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
