1972 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 489 kg more than 1972 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 New Beetle (165 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Renault 12 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
