2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 89 L |
