1975 Honda Civic vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1975 Honda Civic is newer by 1 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1975 Honda Civic. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1975 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1975 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Honda Civic. (80 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Honda Civic | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Civic | 12 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1238 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2450 mm |
