1974 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Rover 45
To start off, 2002 Rover 45 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Rover 45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Rover 45 (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Rover 45 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Rover 45 weights approximately 155 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 Rover 45 (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Rover 45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2002 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Renault | Rover |
| Model | 12 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
