2005 Morgan Aero 8 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Morgan Aero 8 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Morgan Aero 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Morgan Aero 8 (321 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Morgan Aero 8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Morgan Aero 8 weights approximately 182 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 Morgan Aero 8 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 Morgan Aero 8. 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 Morgan Aero 8 (447 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Morgan Aero 8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Morgan Aero 8 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Morgan | Renault |
| Model | Aero 8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
