1997 De Tomaso Guara vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 De Tomaso Guara is newer by 23 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 3,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 De Tomaso Guara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 De Tomaso Guara should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 De Tomaso Guara weights approximately 225 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 1997 De Tomaso Guara 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 1997 De Tomaso Guara. 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, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (402 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 De Tomaso Guara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 De Tomaso Guara | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Renault |
| Model | Guara | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3981 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 402 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
