1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 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 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 610 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 Peugeot 406 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Renault |
| Model | 406 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2088 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
