1969 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 1,565 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (113 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1969 Renault 12 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1969 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Renault 12 | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1565 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 33 L |
