1978 Ford Taunus vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Ford Taunus is newer by 4 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 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Taunus weights approximately 70 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1978 Ford Taunus 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 Ford Taunus. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Taunus | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | 12 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
