1974 Renault 12 vs. 1961 Riley 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 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Riley 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Riley 4 (63 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Riley 4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Riley 4 weights approximately 190 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 1961 Riley 4 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 1961 Riley 4. 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, 1961 Riley 4 (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Riley 4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 1961 Riley 4 | |
Make | Renault | Riley |
Model | 12 | 4 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1489 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1530 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |