1996 Ford Contour vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 342 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. 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, 1996 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Contour | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
