1996 Lexus SC vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Lexus SC is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 650 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | SC | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 56 L |
