1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (122 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 355 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.
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 Chevrolet Cruze (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Renault | Chevrolet |
| Model | 12 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2685 mm |
