1952 Ford Zephyr vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1969 Renault 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,260 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1952 Ford Zephyr. (57 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1952 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 245 kg more than 1969 Renault 12.
Because 1952 Ford Zephyr 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 1952 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1952 Ford Zephyr (151 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1952 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ford Zephyr | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Zephyr | 12 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
