1987 Citroen AX vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1987 Citroen AX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 12 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX. 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, 1979 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1979 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | AX | 12 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 722 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2450 mm |
