1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1974 Renault 12

To start off, 1996 Ford Thunderbird 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 670 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 Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. 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 Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Thunderbird 1974 Renault 12
Make Ford Renault
Model Thunderbird 12
Year Released 1996 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 291 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 950 kg
Vehicle Length 5090 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2450 mm


 

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