1979 Renault 12 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1989 Saab 9000 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 375 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.
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, 1989 Saab 9000 (216 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Renault | Saab |
| Model | 12 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| 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 | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
