1980 Renault 14 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 14 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Smart ForTwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1980 Renault 14. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 14.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 14, 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 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 14. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 14. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 14 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 14 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 14 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 14 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
