1958 Maserati GT 3500 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Maserati GT 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Maserati GT 3500 would be higher. At 3,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Maserati GT 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Maserati GT 3500 (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Maserati GT 3500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Maserati GT 3500 weights approximately 250 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 1958 Maserati GT 3500 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 Maserati GT 3500. 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, 1958 Maserati GT 3500 (345 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 Maserati GT 3500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Maserati GT 3500 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Maserati | Renault |
| Model | GT 3500 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 3483 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
