1974 Renault 12 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 280 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Renault | Volvo |
Model | 12 | S40 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2560 mm |