1949 MG TD vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 12 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1949 MG TD.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 MG TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | MG | Renault |
| Model | TD | 12 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2440 mm |
