1983 Bitter SC vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1983 Bitter SC is newer by 10 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 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Bitter SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Bitter SC (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Bitter SC should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Bitter SC weights approximately 690 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 1983 Bitter SC 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 1983 Bitter SC. 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, 1983 Bitter SC (248 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Bitter SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Bitter SC | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Bitter | Renault |
| Model | SC | 12 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2968 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
