1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (281 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 1191 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.
Because 2009 Saab 03-Sep is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep will offer significantly more control. 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 Saab 03-Sep (355 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2009 Saab 03-Sep 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. 2009 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Renault | Saab |
| Model | 12 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
