1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki Equator (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki Equator weights approximately 345 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 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Renault | Suzuki |
| Model | 12 | Equator |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3200 mm |
