1971 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 41 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 390 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, 2012 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2012 Kia Forte 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. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Renault | Kia |
| Model | 12 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 52 L |
