1974 Renault 12 vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1992 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 295 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, 1992 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 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 | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
