1974 Renault 12 vs. 1985 Nissan Skyline

To start off, 1985 Nissan Skyline is newer by 11 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Nissan Skyline (93 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 100 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 Nissan Skyline 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 1985 Nissan Skyline. 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, 1985 Nissan Skyline (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1985 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 1985 Nissan Skyline
Make Renault Nissan
Model 12 Skyline
Year Released 1974 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 1809 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 149 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1050 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2620 mm