2006 Maserati GranSport vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Maserati GranSport 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 4,242 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Maserati GranSport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Maserati GranSport (395 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Maserati GranSport should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Maserati GranSport weights approximately 730 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 2006 Maserati GranSport 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 2006 Maserati GranSport. 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, 2006 Maserati GranSport (452 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Maserati GranSport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Maserati GranSport | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Maserati | Renault |
| Model | GranSport | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4242 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 395 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 452 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
