1996 Ford Ranger vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Ford Ranger 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 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ranger weights approximately 445 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 1996 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger. 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, 1996 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ranger | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
