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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 182 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.
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 @ 6200 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. 2007 Volvo S80 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. 2007 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1910 mm |
