1974 Renault 12 vs. 1995 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1995 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 210 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, 1995 Volkswagen Golf (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 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 | 1995 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1160 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 |
