1974 Renault 12 vs. 2001 TVR Tuscan
To start off, 2001 TVR Tuscan is newer by 27 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 TVR Tuscan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 TVR Tuscan (390 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 TVR Tuscan should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 TVR Tuscan weights approximately 225 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 2001 TVR Tuscan 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 2001 TVR Tuscan. 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, 2001 TVR Tuscan (420 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 TVR Tuscan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2001 TVR Tuscan | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 12 | Tuscan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2290 mm |
