1974 Renault 12 vs. 2010 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2010 Porsche Cayman is newer by 36 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 2,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Porsche Cayman (265 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Porsche Cayman 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.
Because 2010 Porsche Cayman 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 2010 Porsche Cayman. 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, 2010 Porsche Cayman (299 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2010 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | Renault | Porsche |
| Model | 12 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2416 mm |
