2004 Opel Astra vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 415 kg more than 1971 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, 2004 Opel Astra (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2004 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 56 L |
