1981 BMW 725 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1981 BMW 725 is newer by 7 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. 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, 1981 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 725 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
