1972 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Renault Clio is newer by 36 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Clio (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Clio weights approximately 249 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.
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, 2008 Renault Clio (105 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 12 | 2008 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1149 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 76.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
