1978 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Triumph TR7 (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Triumph TR7 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 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Triumph TR7 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 12 | 1976 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Renault | Triumph |
| Model | 12 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
