1954 BMW 502 vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Renault 12 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,578 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 502 weights approximately 456 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.
Because 1954 BMW 502 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 1954 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, 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, 1954 BMW 502 (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 BMW 502 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1954 BMW 502 | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 502 | 12 |
Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2578 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 954 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |