1974 Renault 12 vs. 1954 Triumph TR2
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Triumph TR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Triumph TR2 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Triumph TR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Triumph TR2 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Triumph TR2 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1954 Triumph TR2.
Because 1954 Triumph TR2 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 1954 Triumph TR2. 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, 1954 Triumph TR2 (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Triumph TR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1954 Triumph TR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Triumph |
| Model | 12 | TR2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2250 mm |
