1974 Renault 12 vs. 2006 BMW 335
To start off, 2006 BMW 335 is newer by 32 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 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 335 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 335 weights approximately 650 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 2006 BMW 335 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 2006 BMW 335. 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, 2006 BMW 335 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 BMW 335 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. 2006 BMW 335 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2006 BMW 335 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
