1974 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 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), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 528 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| 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 | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
