1974 Renault 12 vs. 2009 BMW 545

To start off, 2009 BMW 545 is newer by 35 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 545 weights approximately 1025 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 2009 BMW 545 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 2009 BMW 545. 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, 2009 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2009 BMW 545 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. 2009 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2009 BMW 545
Make Renault BMW
Model 12 545
Year Released 1974 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 4398 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 328 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 450 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1975 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2840 mm