1974 Renault 12 vs. 1983 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1983 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 9 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1983 Vauxhall Astra.
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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1983 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Renault | Vauxhall |
| Model | 12 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
