2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1975 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
