1974 Renault 12 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 205 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.
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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
