1974 Renault 12 vs. 1977 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen 1302 is newer by 3 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 19 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Volkswagen 1302 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 1977 Volkswagen 1302. 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. (85 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 1977 Volkswagen 1302 | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 12 | 1302 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1977 |
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 | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 85 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |