1972 BMW 520 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Renault 12 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 520 | 12 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |