2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1974 Renault 12

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 35 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (319 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 599 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 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 2009 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (498 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2009 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Express 1974 Renault 12
Make Chevrolet Renault
Model Express 12
Year Released 2009 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5999 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 319 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 498 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1549 kg 950 kg
Vehicle Length 5700 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 2080 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 3440 mm 2450 mm