1961 Abarth 700 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 700 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 700. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1961 Abarth 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 700 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 1961 Abarth 700. 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, 1973 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 700. (61 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1973 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 700.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Abarth 700 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | Abarth | Renault |
Model | 700 | 12 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 745 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 45 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 56 L |