1971 BMW 3 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 3 | 12 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |