1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
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 Volvo S40 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2009 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
