1972 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 704 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Toyota MR2 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 2002 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2002 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 12 | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 12 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 72 L |
