1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda RX-7 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda RX-7 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | RX-7 | 12 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |