1972 Nissan Skyline vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Nissan Skyline (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 190 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Nissan Skyline is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1972 Nissan Skyline (160 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Nissan Skyline | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Skyline | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
