1973 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 33 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, 2006 Smart ForFour (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12.
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, 2006 Smart ForFour (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 22 L |
