1980 Fiat 127 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Fiat 127 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1980 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 127 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 127 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2450 mm |
