1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 BMW 2.8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 2.8 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 2.8 | 12 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 295 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |