1973 Lancia Beta 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 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Lancia Beta weights approximately 50 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lancia Beta (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Lancia Beta | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lancia | Renault |
| Model | Beta | 12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
