1957 Buick 40 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Buick 40 (248 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Buick 40 weights approximately 845 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 1957 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 1957 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, 1957 Buick 40 (515 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Buick 40 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Buick | Renault |
Model | 40 | 12 |
Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5967 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 248 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 515 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1795 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1640 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2450 mm |