1973 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac STS is newer by 38 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac STS weights approximately 902 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 2011 Cadillac STS 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 2011 Cadillac STS. 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, 2011 Cadillac STS (368 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2011 Cadillac STS 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. 2011 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2011 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | Renault | Cadillac |
| Model | 12 | STS |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 368 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1802 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2957 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 64 L |
