1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 958 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Gran Torino | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
