1969 Renault 12 vs. 1978 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1978 Mazda Cosmo is newer by 9 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 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (113 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 162 kg more than 1969 Renault 12.
Because 1978 Mazda Cosmo 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 1978 Mazda Cosmo. 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, 1978 Mazda Cosmo (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Renault 12 | 1978 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | 12 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1565 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 65 L |
