1974 Renault 12 vs. 1985 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1985 TVR Tasmin is newer by 11 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 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 TVR Tasmin weights approximately 170 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 1985 TVR Tasmin 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 1985 TVR Tasmin. 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, 1985 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1985 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 12 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2390 mm |
