1989 Honda Accord vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1989 Honda Accord is newer by 15 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 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Honda Accord (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Honda Accord weights approximately 184 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, 1989 Honda Accord (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Accord | 12 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
