1973 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 261 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, 2011 Citroen C3 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Renault | Citroen |
| Model | 12 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
