1974 Renault 12 vs. 2010 BMW 125
To start off, 2010 BMW 125 is newer by 36 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 125 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 2010 BMW 125 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 2010 BMW 125. 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, 2010 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2010 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
