1977 Fiat 126 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1977 Fiat 126 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Fiat 126 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 1977 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Fiat 126 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | Fiat | Renault |
Model | 126 | 12 |
Year Released | 1977 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2450 mm |