1977 Renault 12 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1977 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Renault 12 weights approximately 7 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343.
Because 1974 Volvo 343 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 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1974 Volvo 343 (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Renault 12 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Renault | Volvo |
Model | 12 | 343 |
Year Released | 1977 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |