1976 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 639 kg more than 1976 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2011 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1976 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1976 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Renault 12 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
Make | Renault | Lexus |
Model | 12 | IS |
Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 65 L |