1966 BMW 1602 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1602. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1602 would be higher. At 1,574 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 BMW 1602 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 BMW 1602 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 BMW 1602 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1966 BMW 1602.
Because 1966 BMW 1602 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 1966 BMW 1602. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1966 BMW 1602 (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 BMW 1602 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 BMW 1602 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 1602 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
