1970 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 38 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 205 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Renault 12 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 45 L |
