1950 Fiat 500 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Fiat 500 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 37 more horse power than 1950 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1950 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1950 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 Fiat 500 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 1950 Fiat 500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Fiat 500 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 500 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2450 mm |
