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 1,419 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 5 (380 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 327 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. 1987 Renault 5 weights approximately 186 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1987 Renault 5 (435 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 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 | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1419 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 51 L |
