1998 Honda NSX vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Honda NSX is newer by 18 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda NSX weights approximately 470 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 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, 1980 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 (310 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Honda NSX | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | Honda | Renault |
Model | NSX | 12 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |