1974 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Astra weights approximately 200 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 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2002 Holden Astra 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 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Renault | Holden |
| Model | 12 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
