1974 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 446 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.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Renault Volkswagen
Model 12 Jetta
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 96 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1396 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2580 mm


 

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