1978 Renault 12 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 280 kg more than 1978 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, 1999 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 12 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
