1971 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1976 Renault 12

To start off, 1976 Renault 12 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chevrolet Impala (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 809 kg more than 1976 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 1971 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1971 Chevrolet Impala (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Chevrolet Impala 1976 Renault 12
Make Chevrolet Renault
Model Impala 12
Year Released 1971 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4092 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 256 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 98.2 mm 73 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 77 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 8.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 906 kg
Vehicle Length 5600 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2450 mm