1973 Renault 12 vs. 1964 Simca Ariane
To start off, 1973 Renault 12 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Simca Ariane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Simca Ariane (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Simca Ariane should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Simca Ariane weights approximately 204 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 1964 Simca Ariane 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 1964 Simca Ariane. 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, 1973 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1973 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1964 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Renault | Simca |
| Model | 12 | Ariane |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
