1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 35 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 470 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Renault | Chevrolet |
| Model | 12 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
