1974 Renault 12 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 202 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 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 W12 | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2540 mm |
