1979 Renault 12 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 31 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 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 923 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Renault | Chrysler |
| Model | 12 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 224 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 | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
