1973 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 709 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 V70 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 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 V70 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
