1970 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2002 Smart Roadster is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Renault 12 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Because 2002 Smart Roadster 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 2002 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 2002 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Renault 12 | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
