1980 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Cadillac Escalade
To start off, 2012 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 32 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1535 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 2012 Cadillac Escalade is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Cadillac Escalade. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12. 2012 Cadillac Escalade has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 12 | 2012 Cadillac Escalade | |
| Make | Renault | Cadillac |
| Model | 12 | Escalade |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 403 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 2489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2007 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1928 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2946 mm |
