1974 Renault 12 vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 31 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V40 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 420 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, 2005 Volvo V40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
