1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, both 1979 Datsun 280 and 1979 Renault 12 were released in the same year (1979). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 366 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Datsun | Renault |
| Model | 280 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
