1974 Renault 12 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 6 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, both vehicles can yield 96 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
