2002 Lexus SC vs. 1976 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Lexus SC is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 909 kg more than 1976 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus SC 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 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 1976 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1976 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 1976 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | SC | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4298 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 312 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
