2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 (543 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 490 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 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 R 390 GT1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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 R 390 GT1 (637 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 541 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | R 390 GT1 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 543 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 637 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
