1973 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (75 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
