1973 Renault 12 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 5 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 1978 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Renault | Datsun |
| Model | 12 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
