1973 Renault 12 vs. 1950 Rover P4
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,103 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Rover P4 (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1950 Rover P4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Rover P4 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 Rover P4 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 1950 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1950 Rover P4 (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1950 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1950 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Renault | Rover |
| Model | 12 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1950 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2103 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 65.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 105 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 52 L |
