1973 Renault 12 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 8 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 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 150 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.
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, 1981 Renault 18 (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
