1974 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Lupo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Lupo is newer by 27 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Lupo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Lupo (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Lupo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Lupo weights approximately 25 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, 2001 Volkswagen Lupo (152 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Lupo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2001 Volkswagen Lupo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Lupo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
