2005 Renault Clio vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Renault Clio is newer by 34 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 2,945 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Clio (251 HP @ 7150 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Clio weights approximately 460 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.
Because 2005 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Renault Clio | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Clio | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2945 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7150 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2450 mm |
