1974 Renault 12 vs. 1967 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Wartburg 312 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 8 more horse power than 1967 Wartburg 312. (45 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1967 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1967 Wartburg 312. 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, 1967 Wartburg 312 (98 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1967 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1967 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Renault | Wartburg |
| Model | 12 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1967 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
