1974 Renault 12 vs. 1962 Vauxhall VX4
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Vauxhall VX4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Vauxhall VX4 would be higher. At 1,505 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Vauxhall VX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Vauxhall VX4 (71 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Vauxhall VX4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1962 Vauxhall VX4.
Because 1962 Vauxhall VX4 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 Vauxhall VX4. 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, 1962 Vauxhall VX4 (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Vauxhall VX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1962 Vauxhall VX4 | |
| Make | Renault | Vauxhall |
| Model | 12 | VX4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
