2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 28 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 Caterham Superlight R. 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | Superlight R | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2450 mm |
