1971 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 35 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 601 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2006 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
