2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 630 kg more than 1970 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Frontier | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
