1974 Renault 12 vs. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 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 10 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 840 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 |
