1973 Renault 12 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 300 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Datsun 280Z 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Renault | Datsun |
| Model | 12 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
