1999 Daihatsu SP-4 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 (62 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 weights approximately 20 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 Daihatsu SP-4 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 Daihatsu SP-4 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 Daihatsu SP-4 (107 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Renault |
| Model | SP-4 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
