1978 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Renault 5
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1976 Renault 5. (33 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 12 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1976 Renault 5. 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, 1978 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 5. (53 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 12 | 1976 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
