1973 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste
To start off, 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,439 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste weights approximately 18 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 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste 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 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste. 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, 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste (117 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1976 Mitsubishi Celeste | |
| Make | Renault | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 12 | Celeste |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 918 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2350 mm |
