1973 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 30 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (251 HP @ 7150 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Clio weights approximately 630 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 2003 Renault Clio 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 2003 Renault Clio. 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, 2003 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7150 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
