1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass (120 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 536 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (305 Nm) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Oldsmobile | Renault |
Model | Cutlass | 12 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 96 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1486 kg | 950 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2450 mm |