1976 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer (93 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 12 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Renault |
| Model | Lancer | 12 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2450 mm |
