1984 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1984 Ford Escort 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) has 4 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (85 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 12 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
