1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 1,300 cc, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 461 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 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | 12 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2703 mm |
