2006 Panoz Esperante vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2006 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. 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 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Panoz Esperante | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Panoz | Renault |
| Model | Esperante | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4589 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
