1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 40 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1973 Renault 12.
Because 1954 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 1954 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1973 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2450 mm |
