1974 Renault 12 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Caddy
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Caddy is newer by 23 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Caddy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Caddy (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Caddy should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Caddy weights approximately 85 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, 1997 Volkswagen Caddy (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Caddy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1997 Volkswagen Caddy | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Caddy |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1389 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 | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
