2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 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 4,159 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer weights approximately 311 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 TrailBlazer 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 TrailBlazer. 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 TrailBlazer (374 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 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 TrailBlazer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | TrailBlazer | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4159 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 374 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2450 mm |
