1974 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 438 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
