1974 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 550 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2003 Volvo S40 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. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Renault | Volvo |
Model | 12 | S40 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |