1996 Honda Civic vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Civic (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Civic weights approximately 15 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, 1996 Honda Civic (124 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Civic | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
