2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 705 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 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Vectra | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 226 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 | 1605 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |
