1974 Renault 12 vs. 1958 Simca Oceane
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Simca Oceane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Simca Oceane would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Simca Oceane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Simca Oceane (56 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Simca Oceane should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Simca Oceane weights approximately 22 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.
Because 1958 Simca Oceane 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 1958 Simca Oceane. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Simca Oceane. (88 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Simca Oceane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1958 Simca Oceane | |
| Make | Renault | Simca |
| Model | 12 | Oceane |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
