1979 Nissan Skyline vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Nissan Skyline is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Nissan Skyline (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 Nissan Skyline (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Nissan Skyline | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Skyline | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
