2009 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina (362 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Lumina 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 Lumina 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 Lumina. 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 Lumina (530 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Lumina | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Lumina | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5967 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2450 mm |
