1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Abarth 1300 (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Because 1968 Abarth 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 1968 Abarth 1300. 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, 1968 Abarth 1300 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Abarth 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Abarth 1300 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Abarth | Renault |
| Model | 1300 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 670 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2450 mm |
