1999 Nissan Xterra vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Nissan Xterra 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Xterra (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 634 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Nissan Xterra | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Xterra | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
