1973 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 35 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 672 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.
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, 2008 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
