1974 Renault 12 vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 330 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2012 BMW 330 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 330. 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 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 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 330 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
