1975 Renault 12 vs. 2005 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 is newer by 30 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota MR2 (190 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 92 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.
Because 2005 Toyota MR2 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 2005 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2005 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Renault 12 | 2005 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 12 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 992 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 48 L |
