1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

To start off, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is newer by 38 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (430 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 377 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage weights approximately 660 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 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage 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 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage. 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, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (489 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage 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. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Make Renault Aston Martin
Model 12 V8 Vantage
Year Released 1974 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 4700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 430 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 7300 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 489 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed automated manual
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1610 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4382 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1867 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2601 mm


 

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