1977 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 26 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 420 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.
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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1977 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1977 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Renault 12 | 2003 Saturn L | |
Make | Renault | Saturn |
Model | 12 | L |
Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 59 L |