1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 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 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 120 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
