1976 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 259 kg more than 1976 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 Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Renault 12 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 45 L |
