1974 Renault 12 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 187 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2007 Volkswagen Polo 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. 2007 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2007 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
