1994 Opel Astra vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Opel Astra (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1973 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, 1994 Opel Astra (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Opel Astra | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | 12 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
