1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Saleen S7
To start off, 2009 Saleen S7 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 697 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saleen S7 weights approximately 297 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 Saleen S7 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 2009 Saleen S7. 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, 2009 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 853 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Renault | Saleen |
| Model | 12 | S7 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2692 mm |
