1949 Austin A 40 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Austin A 40 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1949 Austin A 40 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 1949 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Austin A 40 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2450 mm |
