1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,439 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Renault |
| Model | Valiant | 12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2450 mm |
