1974 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2004 Smart ForTwo 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2004 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2004 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1820 mm |
