1974 Renault 12 vs. 1990 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1990 Suzuki Samurai 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Suzuki Samurai (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1990 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1990 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1990 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Renault | Suzuki |
| Model | 12 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
