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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (162 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 109 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 450 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 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 134 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. 1998 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1400 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 |
