1999 Audi A4 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 25 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 440 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.
Because 1999 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Audi A4 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A4 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
