1959 Ford Prefect 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 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1959 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Ford Prefect 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 Ford Prefect. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Prefect. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Prefect.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Ford Prefect 1974 Renault 12
Make Ford Renault
Model Prefect 12
Year Released 1959 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 996 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 38 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 72 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 800 kg 950 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2220 mm 2450 mm


 

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