1976 Nissan Skyline vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1976 Nissan Skyline is newer by 2 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Nissan Skyline (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 30 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 1976 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline. 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, 1976 Nissan Skyline (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Nissan Skyline | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Skyline | 12 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
