1971 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 33 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 186 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, 2004 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
