1986 Mazda 323 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Renault 12 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323.
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, 1971 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
