1974 Renault 12 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 7 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), 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 75 kg more than 1974 Renault 12.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Santana |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| 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 | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2560 mm |
