1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 Renault 12 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Renault 12 (53 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Renault 12 weights approximately 461 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Abarth 500 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
Make | Abarth | Renault |
Model | 500 | 12 |
Year Released | 1957 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 478 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 20 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 32 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 906 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 56 L |