1971 Renault 12 vs. 1966 Renault 8
To start off, 1971 Renault 12 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Renault 8 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1966 Renault 8. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1966 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Renault 12 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1966 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Renault 8 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 1966 Renault 8. 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, 1971 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Renault 8. (78 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Renault 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 1966 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | 8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 78 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 138 km/hour | 130 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 38 L |
