1979 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Citroen C4
To start off, 2012 Citroen C4 is newer by 33 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C4 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C4 weights approximately 635 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, 2012 Citroen C4 (170 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 2012 Citroen C4 | |
| Make | Renault | Citroen |
| Model | 12 | C4 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
