1996 Acura NSX vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Acura NSX is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura NSX weights approximately 464 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Acura NSX 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 1996 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1996 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Acura NSX | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Acura | Renault |
| Model | NSX | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 275 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2440 mm |
