1974 Renault 12 vs. 1969 Simca 1200S
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Simca 1200S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Simca 1200S would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Simca 1200S (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Simca 1200S should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1969 Simca 1200S.
Because 1969 Simca 1200S 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 1969 Simca 1200S. 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, 1969 Simca 1200S (105 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Simca 1200S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1969 Simca 1200S | |
| Make | Renault | Simca |
| Model | 12 | 1200S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1203 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
