1974 Renault 12 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (54 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
