1975 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 315 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.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Renault 12 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
