1969 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 35 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 1,421 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 304 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (335 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Renault 12 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1204 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
