2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 3,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 885 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.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3489 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2450 mm |
