1986 Renault 21 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1974 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, 1986 Renault 21 (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 21 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2440 mm |
