1974 Renault 12 vs. 1989 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1989 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 15 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
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, 1989 Vauxhall Astra (103 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1989 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Renault | Vauxhall |
| Model | 12 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
