1974 Renault 12 vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1968 Volkswagen 1600 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 1968 Volkswagen 1600. 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, 1968 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1968 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
