1956 Fiat 1400 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Fiat 1400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Fiat 1400 would be higher. At 1,900 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Fiat 1400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1956 Fiat 1400. (38 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1956 Fiat 1400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Fiat 1400 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1956 Fiat 1400 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 1956 Fiat 1400. 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, 1956 Fiat 1400 (134 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 1956 Fiat 1400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Fiat 1400 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 1400 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1900 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
