1958 Jaguar XK vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Jaguar XK (208 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Jaguar XK weights approximately 526 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Jaguar XK 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 1958 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1958 Jaguar XK (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Jaguar XK | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Renault |
| Model | XK | 12 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
