2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fiesta (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 60 kg more than 1979 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 Ford Fiesta (109 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Fiesta | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 152 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 56 L |
