1974 Renault 12 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 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 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 12 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1283 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 | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |