1975 Renault 12 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 850 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Renault 12 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
