1959 BMW Isetta vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1970 Renault 12 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Renault 12 (53 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Renault 12 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW Isetta 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 1959 BMW Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Isetta | 12 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 53 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2440 mm |
