2008 Honda S2000 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Honda S2000 is newer by 34 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda S2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda S2000 (237 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda S2000 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda S2000 weights approximately 370 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 2008 Honda S2000 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 2008 Honda S2000. 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, 2008 Honda S2000 (208 Nm @ 7500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda S2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda S2000 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | S2000 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
