1998 Lotus Emme vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Lotus Emme 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Emme is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Emme (260 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Emme should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1998 Lotus Emme.
Because 1998 Lotus Emme 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 Lotus Emme. 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 Lotus Emme (354 Nm) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus Emme will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Emme | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Emme | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
