1996 Peugeot 605 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Peugeot 605 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Peugeot 605 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Peugeot 605 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 605 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Peugeot 605 weights approximately 490 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 Peugeot 605 (179 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Peugeot 605 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 605 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Renault |
| Model | 605 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
