2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1979 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 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | 3 | 12 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 906 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |