2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Astro | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 56 L |
