1974 Renault 12 vs. 1979 Volvo 245
To start off, 1979 Volvo 245 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 245 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1979 Volvo 245 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 1979 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1979 Volvo 245 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1979 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | 245 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
