1973 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 36 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1407 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Renault 12 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
