1974 Renault 12 vs. 1962 Simca 1000
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Simca 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Simca 1000 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 2 more horse power than 1962 Simca 1000. (51 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1962 Simca 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1962 Simca 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Simca 1000 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 1962 Simca 1000. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Simca 1000. (73 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Simca 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1962 Simca 1000 | |
| Make | Renault | Simca |
| Model | 12 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 732 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2230 mm |
