1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 6 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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 150 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 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Renault |
| Model | 1609 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
