2005 Kia Rio vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,342 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Rio (82 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 65 kg more than 1974 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, 2005 Kia Rio (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Kia | Renault |
| Model | Rio | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2450 mm |
