1971 Dodge Dart vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Dodge Dart (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Dodge Dart should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Dart weights approximately 405 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 1971 Dodge Dart 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 Dodge Dart. 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, 1971 Dodge Dart (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Dart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Dart | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Dart | 12 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3249 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
