1973 Renault 12 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 400 kg more than 1973 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Renault 12 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 12 | Passat |
Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |