France vs West Germany — 1962 vs 1965
| Caravelle 1100S Convertible | 912 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,108 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 17.0 sec | 11.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.5 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs | 2,128 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,270 mm | 2,268 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 4,163 mm |
| Units Produced | 117,000 | 30,300 |
| Original MSRP | $2,100 | $4,790 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 5/10 |
The 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When France engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible and 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 55 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault Caravelle uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,108 cc, while the Porsche 912 relies on a Flat-4 OHV with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe edges ahead at 11.6 seconds versus 17.0 seconds. The Renault Caravelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 298 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 30,300 units built, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Renault Caravelle's 117,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.