1974 Renault 12 vs. 1961 Renault 4
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1961 Renault 4. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1961 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1961 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Renault 4. (51 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1961 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 12 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
