1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Renault | Buick |
| Model | 12 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2837 mm |
