1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
