1974 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,388 cc (3 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
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 Polo (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
