1976 Renault 12 vs. 2011 BMW 335
To start off, 2011 BMW 335 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 335 (320 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 335 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1976 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 335 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 2011 BMW 335. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2011 BMW 335 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Renault 12 | 2011 BMW 335 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 12 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2761 mm |
