1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Lancia Kappa 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Kappa (122 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 605 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.
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 Lancia Kappa (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Kappa | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lancia | Renault |
| Model | Kappa | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
