1980 Renault 12 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 348 kg more than 1980 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 12 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
