1974 Renault 12 vs. 1996 Renault Clio
To start off, 1996 Renault Clio is newer by 22 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, 1996 Renault Clio (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1996 Renault Clio.
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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Clio. (88 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1996 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
