1979 Renault 12 vs. 1963 MG Midget
To start off, 1979 Renault 12 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1963 MG Midget. (46 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1963 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 12 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1963 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 MG Midget 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 1963 MG Midget. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 MG Midget. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1979 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 MG Midget.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 12 | 1963 MG Midget | |
| Make | Renault | MG |
| Model | 12 | Midget |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 46 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1372 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1232 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2032 mm |
