1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 685 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 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. 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, 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 12 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2450 mm |
