1974 Renault 12 vs. 2000 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2000 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 26 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Vauxhall Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 275 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, 2000 Vauxhall Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2000 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Renault | Vauxhall |
| Model | 12 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
