2005 MCC Smart vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 MCC Smart is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 MCC Smart (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 12 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2005 MCC Smart.
Because 2005 MCC Smart 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 2005 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2005 MCC Smart (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 MCC Smart | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | MCC | Renault |
| Model | Smart | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2440 mm |
