1991 BMW 518 vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1991 BMW 518 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 518 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1970 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1991 BMW 518 (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 518 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2440 mm |
