1969 Nissan Skyline vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1971 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,483 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Nissan Skyline (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 80 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Nissan Skyline 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 1969 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1969 Nissan Skyline (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Nissan Skyline | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Skyline | 12 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
