1974 Renault 12 vs. 1972 Volvo 164
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 164 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 164 weights approximately 410 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 Volvo 164 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 Volvo 164. 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 Volvo 164 (241 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1972 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
