2005 Maserati MC12 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Maserati MC12 is newer by 31 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Maserati MC12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Maserati MC12 (623 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 570 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Maserati MC12 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Maserati MC12 weights approximately 385 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 2005 Maserati MC12 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 2005 Maserati MC12. 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, 2005 Maserati MC12 (652 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 556 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Maserati MC12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Maserati MC12 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Maserati | Renault |
| Model | MC12 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 623 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2100 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
