1979 Renault 4 vs. 2012 Renault Clio
To start off, 2012 Renault Clio is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Renault Clio (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Renault Clio weights approximately 1115 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, 2012 Renault Clio (152 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 4 | 2012 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 4 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 955 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
