2005 Mazda AZ vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Mazda AZ is newer by 32 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 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda AZ (63 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda AZ should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2005 Mazda AZ.
Because 2005 Mazda AZ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda AZ will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda AZ (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda AZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda AZ | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | AZ | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |
