1970 Renault 12 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 70 kg more than 1970 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, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Renault 12 | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2560 mm |
