1974 Renault 12 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 410 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2537 mm |
