2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,838 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 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, 1978 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 (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Renault 12. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda Roadster | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | Roadster | 12 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1838 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 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 |