1987 Nissan Vanette vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1987 Nissan Vanette is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Nissan Vanette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Nissan Vanette (60 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan Vanette should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Vanette weights approximately 560 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Nissan Vanette is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Nissan Vanette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Vanette (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Nissan Vanette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Nissan Vanette | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Vanette | 12 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1952 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2080 mm | 2440 mm |
