2002 Cadillac Le Mans vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Cadillac Le Mans is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac Le Mans is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac Le Mans (600 HP) has 547 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac Le Mans should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac Le Mans weights approximately 845 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Cadillac Le Mans 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 2002 Cadillac Le Mans. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 Cadillac Le Mans (400 Nm) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2002 Cadillac Le Mans will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12. 2002 Cadillac Le Mans has automatic transmission and 1979 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1979 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac Le Mans will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac Le Mans | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Renault |
| Model | Le Mans | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 600 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1795 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1030 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
