1974 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 34 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 475 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Renault | Chrysler |
| Model | 12 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
