1972 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 40 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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 305 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 12 | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Renault | Citroen |
| Model | 12 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 47 L |
