1997 Proton 300 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Proton 300 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton 300 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 300 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 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 Proton 300 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Proton 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 300 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Proton | Renault |
| Model | 300 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
