1974 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Vitara 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Suzuki Vitara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 345 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 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Vitara (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2001 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Renault | Suzuki |
| Model | 12 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2210 mm |
