1974 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Porsche 911

To start off, 2004 Porsche 911 is newer by 30 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 911 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche 911 weights approximately 565 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 2004 Porsche 911 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Porsche 911. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Porsche 911 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2004 Porsche 911 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. 2004 Porsche 911 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2004 Porsche 911
Make Renault Porsche
Model 12 911
Year Released 1974 2004
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1289 cc 3596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 53 HP 317 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1515 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2360 mm