1974 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 748 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 V50 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
