1976 Mini MK III vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1976 Mini MK III is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Renault 12 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. 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, 1969 Renault 12 (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1969 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK III | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mini | Renault |
| Model | MK III | 12 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
