2002 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 368 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.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. 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 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Solstice | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Renault |
| Model | Solstice | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
