2002 Honda Civic vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Civic (108 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda Civic weights approximately 140 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, 2002 Honda Civic (135 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Civic | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Civic | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
