1996 Lexus GS vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Lexus GS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus GS weights approximately 766 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12. 1996 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lexus GS | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | Lexus | Renault |
Model | GS | 12 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 205 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 954 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |