Renault hit it big in 1969 when it released a small family car the company dubbed the “12.” Even though it wasn’t as large as a station wagon or a sedan, it still managed to garner the attention of the public thanks to its surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior. Aside from this attraction, the Renault 12 was also known for its performance and fuel consumption. Now how did this vehicle come to be?

Well, back in 1965, Renault needed a vehicle that could come as a cross between the Renault 8 and Renault 16. The company wanted one that was economical yet was capable of having a big interior, a large boot, and a small yet powerful engine. The result was the Renault 12. Although sharing some similarities to the Renault 16, the “12” had some features that the “16” didn’t have. One was how its engine was installed. Compared to the “16”, the Renault 12 had its iron-cast engine installed “longitudinally ahead of the front wheels.” This allowed the Renault 12 to have its gear selector placed on the car’s floor instead of its dashboard. The handbrake, however, was left on the dashboard. Second, the Renault 12 sported a differed suspension system, relying on a rear axle suspension instead of the four-wheel independent suspension.

Since its debut in 1969, numerous versions of the Renault 12 were produced aside from its base model. First was the Estate model, which carried the standard trim and engine of the original Renault 12. Second was the Gordini model that was given an upgraded 1565 cc engine combined with two double-barrel Webber carburetors. The third model was the Renault 12 TS which distinguished itself from other models thanks to its Gordini-style wheels, a chrome strip placed on the side of the car, and its two extra headlights. Fourth was the Renault 12 TR, which sported an automatic transmission.

By selling more than two million units during its production run, the Renault 12 was able to show people that big things really do come in small packages.

Source:  Wikipedia