2000 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 26 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 2,391 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 397 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird 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 2000 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (203 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2000 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Pontiac Firebird | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Renault |
| Model | Firebird | 12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
