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 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 174 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. 1973 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 500 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 365 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 | 5211 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
