1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 5 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 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 131 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 1979 Fiat 131. 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 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 | 152 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
