1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 37 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 200 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 | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
