1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Citroen Saxo is newer by 22 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 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Saxo (55 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Citroen Saxo.
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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (95 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Saxo | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2450 mm |
