1981 BMW 518 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1981 BMW 518 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 518 | 12 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |