1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 38 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 590 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 2012 BMW 320 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 2012 BMW 320. 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, 2012 BMW 320 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 143 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 57 L |
