1974 Renault 12 vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2003 BMW Z8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW Z8 weights approximately 635 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 2003 BMW Z8 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 2003 BMW Z8. 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Renault 12 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
Make | Renault | BMW |
Model | 12 | Z8 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 4939 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |