1972 Austin Marina vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Austin Marina (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Austin Marina should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin Marina weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Austin Marina 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 1972 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1972 Austin Marina (145 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Austin Marina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Marina | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | Marina | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
