2008 Lexus LS vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Lexus LS is newer by 37 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 890 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 2008 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS. 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, 2008 Lexus LS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 2008 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus LS | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | LS | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 417 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2450 mm |
