1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,481 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 1300 (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 1300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Fiat 1300 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1961 Fiat 1300 (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Fiat 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Fiat 1300 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | Fiat | Renault |
Model | 1300 | 12 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |