1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 35 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), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| 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 | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
