1998 Honda NSX vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Honda NSX is newer by 24 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda NSX weights approximately 514 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.
Because 1998 Honda NSX 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 1998 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1998 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda NSX | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | NSX | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
