1964 BMW 700 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 Renault 12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1964 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1964 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Renault 12 weights approximately 246 kg more than 1964 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 BMW 700 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 1964 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 BMW 700. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 BMW 700 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 700 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 696 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 56 L |
