1996 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Fiat Panda is newer by 22 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, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | Panda | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2450 mm |
