1971 Renault 12 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 136 kg more than 1971 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Renault 12 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make Renault Volkswagen
Model 12 Polo
Year Released 1971 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1086 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2410 mm


 

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