1974 Renault 12 vs. 1990 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1990 Vauxhall Astra 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1990 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1990 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Renault | Vauxhall |
| Model | 12 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| 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 | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 830 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 |
