1986 BMW Z1 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 BMW Z1 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW Z1 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW Z1 weights approximately 48 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 1986 BMW Z1 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 1986 BMW Z1. 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, 1986 BMW Z1 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z1 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
