1966 Mercury Cougar 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 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 412 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Mercury Cougar 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 Mercury Cougar. 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.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Mercury Cougar | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mercury | Renault |
Model | Cougar | 12 |
Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4728 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |