1974 Renault 12 vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 8 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Austin Ambassador (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 265 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.
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, 1982 Austin Ambassador (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1982 Austin Ambassador 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. 1982 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Renault | Austin |
| Model | 12 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
