1977 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 538 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 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2003 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
