1970 Mercury Cougar 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 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercury Cougar (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 700 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 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 1970 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. Let's talk about torque, 1970 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Mercury Cougar 1974 Renault 12
Make Mercury Renault
Model Cougar 12
Year Released 1970 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5769 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 167 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 363 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1650 kg 950 kg
Vehicle Length 5840 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2450 mm