1977 Renault 12 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 550 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
