1985 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1985 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 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 5,013 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (190 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 524 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (325 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Pontiac Firebird | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Renault |
| Model | Firebird | 12 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5013 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
