1986 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 12 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 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 180 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.
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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Renault |
| Model | Grand Am | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2471 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
