1966 Fiat 124 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,438 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Fiat 124 (90 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1966 Fiat 124.
Because 1966 Fiat 124 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 1966 Fiat 124. 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, 1966 Fiat 124 (108 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Fiat 124 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Fiat | Renault |
Model | 124 | 12 |
Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1438 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2450 mm |