1972 Porsche 914 vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 Porsche 914 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 914 (108 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 914 should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Renault 12 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914.
Because 1972 Porsche 914 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 Porsche 914. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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 Porsche 914 (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Porsche 914 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Porsche 914 | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Porsche | Renault |
| Model | 914 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
