1974 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Suzuki Samurai (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 135 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 Suzuki Samurai 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, 2004 Suzuki Samurai 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, 2004 Suzuki Samurai (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2004 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Renault | Suzuki |
| Model | 12 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
