1969 Renault 12 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 662 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1969 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1969 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Renault 12 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 149 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
