1974 Renault 12 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 295 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 V40 (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V40 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 V40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
