2003 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (340 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 570 kg more than 1970 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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 Corvette (483 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Corvette | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 483 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
