1974 Renault 12 vs. 1972 Rover P5B

To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover P5B (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover P5B should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover P5B weights approximately 640 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Rover P5B 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 1972 Rover P5B. 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, 1972 Rover P5B (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1972 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 1972 Rover P5B
Make Renault Rover
Model 12 P5B
Year Released 1974 1972
Engine Size 1289 cc 3528 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 295 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1590 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2820 mm