1977 Renault 12 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 595 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1977 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1977 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 90 L |
