1971 Renault 12 vs. 1959 Renault Fregate
To start off, 1971 Renault 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Renault Fregate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Renault Fregate would be higher. At 2,141 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Renault Fregate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Renault Fregate (76 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Renault Fregate should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Renault Fregate weights approximately 410 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Renault Fregate 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 1959 Renault Fregate. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1959 Renault Fregate (153 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 Renault Fregate will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 1959 Renault Fregate | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | Fregate |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 38 L |
