1974 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 28 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 265 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Renault | Chevrolet |
| Model | 12 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
