1979 Ford Taunus vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Ford Taunus is newer by 2 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 1,293 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Taunus (57 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Taunus weights approximately 120 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 1979 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 1979 Ford Taunus. 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, 1977 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Taunus | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
