1997 Honda Prelude vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Honda Prelude is newer by 23 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (131 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 292 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, 1997 Honda Prelude (178 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Prelude | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2450 mm |
