1974 Renault 12 vs. 1961 Singer Gazelle
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Singer Gazelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Singer Gazelle would be higher. At 1,592 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Singer Gazelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1961 Singer Gazelle. (52 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1961 Singer Gazelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Singer Gazelle weights approximately 94 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1961 Singer Gazelle 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 Singer Gazelle. 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 Singer Gazelle (118 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Singer Gazelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1961 Singer Gazelle | |
| Make | Renault | Singer |
| Model | 12 | Gazelle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
