1978 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 34 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 316 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (144 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 12 | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Renault | Citroen |
| Model | 12 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
