1966 Ginetta G12 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1978 Renault 18 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ginetta G12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ginetta G12 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ginetta G12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ginetta G12 (158 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ginetta G12 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 208 kg more than 1966 Ginetta G12.
Because 1966 Ginetta G12 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 Ginetta G12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18, 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 Ginetta G12 (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ginetta G12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ginetta G12 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ginetta | Renault |
| Model | G12 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2450 mm |
