1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
Make | Fiat | Renault |
Model | 131 | 12 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |