1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 793 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Renault | Ford |
| Model | 12 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
