1973 Renault 12 vs. 2005 Smart Coupe
To start off, 2005 Smart Coupe is newer by 32 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 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart Coupe (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Coupe should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2005 Smart Coupe.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Smart Coupe (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Smart Coupe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2005 Smart Coupe has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Smart Coupe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2005 Smart Coupe | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | Coupe |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 730 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 33 L |
