1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 38 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 450 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2651 mm |
