2009 Citroen C2 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Citroen C2 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C2 (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C2 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C2 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1973 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, 2009 Citroen C2 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C2 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | C2 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 56 L |
