1994 Chrysler Viper vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 1994 Chrysler Viper is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1994 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 684 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Chrysler Viper 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 1994 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1994 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Chrysler Viper | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Renault |
| Model | Viper | 12 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
