1975 Renault 12 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1216 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Renault 12 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
