1974 Renault 12 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Sharan 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 720 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 Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
