1979 Renault 4 vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Renault 4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Renault 12 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. 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, 1970 Renault 12 (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 4 | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 4 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 955 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
