1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Renault 12 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 550 A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 12 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A.
Because 1956 Porsche 550 A 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 Porsche 550 A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 550 A | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Porsche | Renault |
| Model | 550 A | 12 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2450 mm |
