1968 Lotus Europa 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 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Europa (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Because 1968 Lotus Europa 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 Lotus Europa. 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 Lotus Europa (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Lotus Europa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Europa | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Europa | 12 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
