1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1976 Renault 20
To start off, 1976 Renault 20 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,645 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Renault 20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Renault 20 (97 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Renault 20 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Renault 20 weights approximately 561 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Renault 20, 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, 1976 Renault 20 (133 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Renault 20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200. 1976 Renault 20 has automatic transmission and 1970 Datsun 1200 has manual transmission. 1970 Datsun 1200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Renault 20 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1976 Renault 20 | |
| Make | Datsun | Renault |
| Model | 1200 | 20 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 59 L |
