1979 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 24 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Clio weights approximately 199 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, 2003 Renault Clio (191 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 50 L |
