1996 Ferrari F355 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Ferrari F355 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari F355 (377 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ferrari F355 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 1996 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1996 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ferrari F355 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
Make | Ferrari | Renault |
Model | F355 | 12 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 377 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |