1974 Renault 12 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (157 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 395 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
