1957 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Porsche 356 (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356.
Because 1957 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. 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 Porsche 356 (120 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Porsche 356 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Porsche | Renault |
| Model | 356 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2450 mm |
