1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Nissan NV
To start off, 2012 Nissan NV 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 1758 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.
Because 2012 Nissan NV is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Nissan NV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 NV (521 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Nissan NV 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 Nissan NV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Nissan NV | |
| Make | Renault | Nissan |
| Model | 12 | NV |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 521 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2708 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 6111 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 2156 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3711 mm |
