1979 Lincoln Continental vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Lincoln Continental 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 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lincoln Continental (138 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 950 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 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. 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 Lincoln Continental (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1979 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lincoln Continental | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Renault |
| Model | Continental | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2450 mm |
