1974 Renault 12 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 406 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 Rabbit (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 Rabbit | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
