1974 Renault 12 vs. 1994 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1994 TVR Chimaera is newer by 20 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 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 TVR Chimaera (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 110 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 1994 TVR Chimaera 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 1994 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1994 TVR Chimaera (498 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1994 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 12 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2290 mm |
