1977 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Toyota MR2. 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, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 12 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
