1980 Renault 12 vs. 1993 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1993 Renault Safrane is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Renault Safrane (264 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Renault Safrane weights approximately 721 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Renault Safrane is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Renault Safrane will offer significantly more control. 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, 1993 Renault Safrane (370 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 12 | 1993 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
