1974 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Volvo S40

To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 32 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 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 675 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 2006 Volvo S40 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, 2006 Volvo S40 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 Volvo S40 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. 2006 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2006 Volvo S40
Make Renault Volvo
Model 12 S40
Year Released 1974 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 2522 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 218 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1625 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2650 mm


 

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