1978 Nissan Violet vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Nissan Violet is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Violet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Nissan Violet (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Violet should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 74 kg more than 1978 Nissan Violet.
Because 1978 Nissan Violet 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 1978 Nissan Violet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1978 Nissan Violet (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Nissan Violet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Violet | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Violet | 12 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
