1971 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 37 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 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Suzuki Jimny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Jimny (85 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Jimny should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 280 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.
Because 2008 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Suzuki Jimny (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Suzuki Jimny will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 2008 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Renault | Suzuki |
| Model | 12 | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
