1975 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volvo S60 is newer by 36 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S60 (200 HP) has 147 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S60 weights approximately 659 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, 2011 Volvo S60 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12. 2011 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1975 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1975 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Renault 12 | 2011 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2776 mm |
