2000 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Jensen SV-8 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 350 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 2000 Jensen SV-8 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 2000 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2000 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Jensen SV-8 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Jensen | Renault |
| Model | SV-8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
