2006 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Fiat Panda is newer by 32 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Fiat Panda (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 Fiat Panda.
Because 2006 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Fiat Panda (197 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Panda | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | Panda | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
