1982 Opel Manta vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1982 Opel Manta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Opel Manta (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Manta weights approximately 96 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Opel Manta 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 1982 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1982 Opel Manta (98 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Manta | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Manta | 12 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2450 mm |
