1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 Fiat 124 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1969 Renault 12.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1969 Renault 12 (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1969 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 124 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
