2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 35 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 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 810 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 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1289 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 56 L |
