1951 MG YB vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 MG YB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 MG YB 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 8 more horse power than 1951 MG YB. (45 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1951 MG YB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 MG YB weights approximately 110 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1951 MG YB 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 1951 MG YB. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 MG YB. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 MG YB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 MG YB | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | MG | Renault |
| Model | YB | 12 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
