1989 Renault 4 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1989 Renault 4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Renault 4. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 283 kg more than 1989 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Renault 4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 4 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
