1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 199 kg more than 1979 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 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1979 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1979 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
