1974 Renault 12 vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Renault Volkswagen
Model 12 Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1974 1960
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1289 cc 1192 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 30 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 77 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2430 mm


 

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