1998 Proton 400 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Proton 400 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Proton 400 weights approximately 46 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 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Proton | Renault |
| Model | 400 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
