1974 Renault 12 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 286 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
