1974 Renault 12 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 30 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 445 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 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
