1972 Renault 12 vs. 1968 TVR Vixen
To start off, 1972 Renault 12 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 TVR Vixen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 TVR Vixen would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 TVR Vixen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 TVR Vixen (87 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 TVR Vixen should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Renault 12 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1968 TVR Vixen.
Because 1968 TVR Vixen 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 1968 TVR Vixen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1968 TVR Vixen (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 TVR Vixen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 12 | 1968 TVR Vixen | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 12 | Vixen |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 864 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2290 mm |
