1974 Renault 12 vs. 1990 Saab 900
To start off, 1990 Saab 900 is newer by 16 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 900 weights approximately 230 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.
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, 1990 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1990 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Renault | Saab |
| Model | 12 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
