1989 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1989 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 664 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 1989 Ford Thunderbird 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 1989 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1989 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Thunderbird | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | 12 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2450 mm |
