1977 Fiat 132 vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1977 Fiat 132 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Fiat 132 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Fiat 132 should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 132 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1970 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Fiat 132 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 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1977 Fiat 132 (148 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Fiat 132 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 132 | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 132 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 56 L |
