1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1088 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 Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3078 mm |
