1980 Lancia Beta vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Beta weights approximately 110 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 Lancia Beta 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 Lancia Beta. 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 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Lancia Beta | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Lancia | Renault |
Model | Beta | 12 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2450 mm |