2000 Ford Focus vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Ford Focus is newer by 26 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Focus weights approximately 250 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, 2000 Ford Focus (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Focus | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Focus | 12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
