1974 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1976 Triumph Dolomite is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Triumph Dolomite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Triumph Dolomite (57 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Triumph Dolomite should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1976 Triumph Dolomite.
Because 1976 Triumph Dolomite 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 1976 Triumph Dolomite. 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, both vehicles can yield 96 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1976 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Renault | Triumph |
| Model | 12 | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
