1974 Renault 17 vs. 1966 Simca Ariane
To start off, 1974 Renault 17 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,606 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 17 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1966 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17 should accelerate faster than 1966 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Simca Ariane weights approximately 45 kg more than 1974 Renault 17.
Because 1966 Simca Ariane 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 1966 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17, 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, 1974 Renault 17 (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 17 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 17 | 1966 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Renault | Simca |
| Model | 17 | Ariane |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1606 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
