1987 Lada Samara vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 13 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, 1987 Lada Samara (64 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara.
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, both vehicles can yield 96 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lada | Renault |
| Model | Samara | 12 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2450 mm |
