1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 37 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2011 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Renault | Hyundai |
| Model | 12 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
