2003 Holden Statesman vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman is newer by 29 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (204 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 740 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 2003 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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, 2003 Holden Statesman (305 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2003 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Holden | Renault |
| Model | Statesman | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
