1981 Fiat 127 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1981 Fiat 127 is newer by 7 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 1,300 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 127 (74 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127.
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, 1981 Fiat 127 (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 127 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 127 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2450 mm |
