1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 380 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (82 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 12 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
