1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (321 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2012 Opel Insignia is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia 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 Opel Insignia (435 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Opel Insignia 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 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Renault | Opel |
| Model | 12 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2737 mm |
