1974 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2003 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 29 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota RAV4 (145 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 328 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 2003 Toyota RAV4 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, 2003 Toyota RAV4 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, 2003 Toyota RAV4 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2003 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 12 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
