1999 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Hyundai Sonata 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Hyundai Sonata (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 356 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, 1999 Hyundai Sonata (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Renault |
| Model | Sonata | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 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 | 169 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1306 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
