1977 Renault 12 vs. 1978 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1978 Triumph Dolomite is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph Dolomite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Triumph Dolomite (57 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Triumph Dolomite should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Triumph Dolomite weights approximately 42 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Triumph Dolomite 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 1978 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1978 Triumph Dolomite (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph Dolomite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 1978 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Renault | Triumph |
| Model | 12 | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 56 L |
