1978 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 23 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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12.
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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 12 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Renault | Saab |
| Model | 12 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
