1974 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 27 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS 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.
Because 2001 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2001 Lexus IS 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. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2001 Lexus IS | |
Make | Renault | Lexus |
Model | 12 | IS |
Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 247 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |