1990 Renault 4 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1990 Renault 4 is newer by 11 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 19 more horse power than 1990 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 12 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1990 Renault 4. 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 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Renault 4 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 4 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
