1971 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 124 (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 38 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 124 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
