1974 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Smart ForTwo 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Smart ForTwo (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2008 Smart ForTwo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Smart ForTwo (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2008 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2008 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 12 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 2730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1870 mm |
