2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 585 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 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 6 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 198 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 | 1485 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 56 L |
