1974 Renault 12 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 25 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 145 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, 1999 Renault Megane (151 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1999 Renault Megane 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. 1999 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2590 mm |
