1971 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 305 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 138 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
