1997 Honda S-MX vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 17 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 430 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 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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 S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Honda S-MX | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | Honda | Renault |
Model | S-MX | 12 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |