1974 Renault 12 vs. 2010 BMW 325
To start off, 2010 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 325 weights approximately 646 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 325 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 325 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1596 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 |
