1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 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 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Peugeot 408 (147 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
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 Peugeot 408 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Peugeot 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Peugeot 408 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 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Renault | Peugeot |
| Model | 12 | 408 |
| 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 | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
