1954 Buick 40 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Buick 40 (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Buick 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 Buick 40. 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, 1954 Buick 40 (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1954 Buick 40 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Buick | Renault |
Model | 40 | 12 |
Year Released | 1954 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4328 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 950 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2450 mm |