1987 Citroen BX vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1987 Citroen BX is newer by 13 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 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Citroen BX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Citroen BX weights approximately 123 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, 1987 Citroen BX (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen BX | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | BX | 12 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1073 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
