1974 Renault 12 vs. 2007 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 33 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S80 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S80 weights approximately 626 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2007 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 207 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 | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
