1999 MCC Smart vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 MCC Smart is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,565 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (113 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Renault 12 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1969 Renault 12 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 MCC Smart | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | MCC | Renault |
| Model | Smart | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2450 mm |
