1974 Renault 12 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 307 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| 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 | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
