2004 Nissan 350Z vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Nissan 350Z is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 529 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Nissan 350Z 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 2004 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 2004 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan 350Z | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 89 L |
