1979 Renault 12 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 765 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1979 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1979 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Renault 12 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 12 | Passat |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1715 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |