The vibration-rotational Raman spectra of the ν1 (Σ+g), ν2(Σ+g ) and ν4(Πg) bands of acetylene, 12C2H2, have been analysed and vibration-rotation constants νo, α and q have been calculated with a precision similar to, and often better than, the best Raman and i.r. values available. Analyses of the resolved vibrational-rotational hot bands (ν1 + ν14 - ν14), (ν1 + ν15 - ν15) have also been carried out. Using the best Raman and i.r. values of the rotational and vibration-rotational constants for the 12C2H2 and 12C2D2 species the bond lengths re(CC) and e(CH) have been calculated. © 1990.