1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 448 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Renault | Nissan |
| Model | 12 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2675 mm |
