1988 Buick LeSabre vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1988 Buick LeSabre is newer by 14 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick LeSabre (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 550 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, 1988 Buick LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick LeSabre | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Buick | Renault |
| Model | LeSabre | 12 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
