2002 MCC Smart vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 MCC Smart 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 MCC Smart (80 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 134 kg more than 2002 MCC Smart.
Because 2002 MCC Smart 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 MCC Smart. 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 MCC Smart (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 MCC Smart | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | MCC | Renault |
| Model | Smart | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2450 mm |
