1984 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1984 Fiat Panda is newer by 10 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1984 Fiat Panda. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 189 kg more than 1984 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat Panda. (69 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat Panda | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | Panda | 12 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 965 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2450 mm |
