1974 Renault 12 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 1997 Acura EL is newer by 23 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura EL weights approximately 129 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, 1997 Acura EL (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Renault | Acura |
| Model | 12 | EL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2619 mm |
