1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Porsche 911

To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (408 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche 911 weights approximately 470 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 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. 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 Porsche 911 (420 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2012 Porsche 911
Make Renault Porsche
Model 12 911
Year Released 1974 2012
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1289 cc 3800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 53 HP 408 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 7300 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 420 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1420 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4435 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1852 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2350 mm