1973 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 564 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
