1974 Renault 12 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
