1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (291 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Renault | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 12 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4496 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2649 mm |
