1973 Renault 12 vs. 1987 Renault 5
To start off, 1987 Renault 5 is newer by 14 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 5 (118 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1987 Renault 5.
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, 1987 Renault 5 (165 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1987 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
