1970 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,534 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lincoln Continental (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 1260 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 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. 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 Lincoln Continental (464 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lincoln Continental | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Renault |
| Model | Continental | 12 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7534 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 464 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2210 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5500 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2450 mm |
