2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 80 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 Mazda Roadster 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 Mazda Roadster. 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 Mazda Roadster (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | Roadster | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
