2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (81 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 180 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 2 (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 2 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 56 L |
