1974 Renault 12 vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 1998 Volvo C70 is newer by 24 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (236 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo C70 weights approximately 530 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (340 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
