1973 Renault 5 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1973 Renault 5. (33 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1973 Renault 5. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 5. (53 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 5 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 5 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 782 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 53 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
