1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 10 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 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1959 Abarth 1600. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Abarth | Renault |
| Model | 1600 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2450 mm |
