2001 Renault Clio vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 Renault Clio is newer by 27 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Clio (230 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Clio weights approximately 800 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 2001 Renault Clio 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 2001 Renault Clio. 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, 2001 Renault Clio (105 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2001 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Renault Clio | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Clio | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |
